Al Ain Zoo offers visitors the opportunity to explore the largest specialised library in environmental sciences in the UAE. With more than 11,000 printed and electronic resources, the library supports the Zoo’s mission to raise community awareness and promote environmental and biological education.
Among the most notable works in the collection is the 1942 publication The Oceans: Their Physics, Chemistry, and General Biology by Sverdrup, Johnson, and Fleming. This book aligns with Al Ain Zoo’s commitment to both terrestrial and marine wildlife conservation, providing scientific insights into oceanography and biology.
Another significant publication is Al Ain Zoo, first published in 1979. This is the oldest book produced by the Zoo, prepared by the Municipality Department of the Abu Dhabi Emirate, and authored by Dr. Ghassan Al-Jaradi and Roselyn Mary Dickinson. This invaluable resource highlights the zoo's animal collections in 1979, which included 1,573 animals at the time. Enriched with photographs by T. Johann Pollard, the book illustrates the significant growth and development of the zoo, showcasing the increasing variety of species, expanded facilities, exhibits, services, and the remarkable experiences that have shaped the zoo.
The publication also emphasises the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan in founding Al Ain Zoo as a sanctuary for wildlife protection. His decision to establish the zoo stemmed from his foresight in recognising the threats to natural habitats and the unchecked exploitation of the environment. He predicted early on the dangers posed to nature and the necessity of establishing protected spaces to conserve wildlife.
The Al Ain Zoo book also underscores the zoo’s status as one of the most modern zoological institutions globally. The zoo strives to protect and preserve endangered species, offering future generations the opportunity to experience many different types of wildlife.
In addition to its vast collection, the Zoo’s Research Centre at the Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre plays a pivotal role in nature conservation efforts. The centre serves as a hub for both specialists and the public, offering year-round initiatives, services, and activities, including lending programmes, workshops, events, and internal employee initiatives like the Mobile Library (Read and Relax Corner) to foster a culture of reading and learning.
Al Ain Zoo continues to make significant strides in its commitment to wildlife conservation, education, and research. As a leading institution in the UAE, the zoo not only offers a space for learning and exploration but also actively contributes to the preservation of biodiversity. With its extensive library and innovative programmes, Al Ain Zoo remains at the forefront of environmental education, inspiring future generations to care for the planet and its inhabitants.
